Superconductive energy storage. Final report, January 1, 1976 - September 30, 1981

Superconductive Magnetic Energy Storage (SMES) research and development for DOE from 1976-1981 has advanced the design of SMES from one deep tunnel to a 15 tunnel hour-glass design to the present low aspect ratio surface trench large diameter storage solenoid. This final report, which refers to all previous detailed reports and publications, concentrates on the last design of 1981, the low aspect ratio design. The SMES project is an ongoing project which includes the continuous development of designs and components. This report describes conceptual designs and the current state of development for the conductor, struts and cryogenics. Two companion efforts, rock mechanics and electrical systems, have been supported by the Wisconsin Utilities and are given less coverage here, although many references are listed in the 176-item bibliography. The present state of the project is that $15 million dollars is needed to take the next step. The work to be done is to improve the design, complete the component developments, design and test fabrication equipment and undertake credible cost estimates